Spinal Dysraphism &
Tethered Cord Syndrome

Spinal dysraphism and tethered cord syndrome are congenital conditions affecting spinal cord development and function.

Overview

Symptoms

Treatment

Prevention

Spinal dysraphism is a broad term encompassing a group of birth defects affecting the spine and spinal cord. It occurs when the spine and spinal cord don’t develop properly during fetal development.

Types of Spinal Dysraphism:

Spina Bifida: The most common type, characterized by incomplete closure of the spinal canal.
– Occulta: least severe, with no visible signs.
– Meningocele: involves a sac of fluid protruding from the back.
– Myelomeningocele: most severe, with the spinal cord and nerves exposed.
Lipomyelomeningocele: A type of spina bifida with a fatty mass attached to the spinal cord.
Diastematomyelia: A split in the spinal cord.

Tethered Cord Syndrome

Tethered cord syndrome is a condition where the spinal cord is abnormally attached to the surrounding tissues, preventing its normal movement within the spinal column. This can cause a variety of neurological problems.

Symptoms of Tethered Cord

Back pain
Leg pain or weakness
Bowel or bladder problems
Foot deformities

Treatment

Treatment for spinal dysraphism and tethered cord often involves surgery to release the spinal cord and correct any abnormalities. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Types of Surgery

Untethering surgery: This involves releasing the spinal cord from the tissue that is anchoring it down.
Closure of spinal defects: For conditions like spina bifida, surgery may be needed to close the open area on the back and protect the spinal cord and nerves.
Reconstruction of the spinal column: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct deformities of the spine.
Shunt placement: For hydrocephalus, a condition often associated with spinal dysraphism, a shunt may be needed to drain excess fluid from the brain.

To know more about specific techniques, recovery process, or potential risks associated with Minimal Invasive Spine Fixation, set up an appointment with Dr Ananth Egoor.